Over the course of seven years, AENY has identified neighborhood strengths that can be further tapped into for the benefit of the entire community. Not least amongst these assets are local artists who hold the talent and vision necessary for creating a strong cultural foundation for East New York. Additionally, AENY has developed partnerships with diverse community-based organizations in the area that are eager to utilize the arts in achieving economic development and public health goals. AENY has also identified a sizeable group of middle-income professionals and homeowners who have the capacity to invest in their own community, but currently spend their funds elsewhere due to a lack of services, retail offerings, and leisure activities in the neighborhood. During a moment of substantial City investment in East New York, opportunities exist to capitalize on existing strengths for the benefit of the entire community.

AENY has chosen this strategy because a wealth of research points to one thing: the arts are a two-fold investment. Numerous studies cite cultural expression as vital to building upon community assets and fostering stewardship of place. When the whole community gets involved in arts and cultural activities, these initiatives reduce isolation amongst individuals and strengthen neighborhood identity. Additionally, the Arts & Economic Prosperity Report compiled by Americans for the Arts shows that proximity to arts venues increases local business exposure to a new customer base and brings a significant increase in event-related spending. [re]New Lots will empower the East New York community by capitalizing on the arts as a proven boon to both civic life and local economies. 

[re]New Lots will address the disproportionate needs of the community by not only engaging with artist and market vendors, but building a foundation of sustainability and wellness that promote the longevity and health of local residents.